Hepatitis B surface antibody (IgG) by qualitative immunoassay (serum/plasma)
This test checks for antibodies to the hepatitis B virus surface antigen, which your immune system produces after exposure to the virus. It helps determine past infection or immunity.
["Assesses past hepatitis B exposure or immunity status through antibody detection."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 15441-9
- Short code
- IBV Conn42 Ab Titr Ser HAI
- Synonyms
- IBV Conn42 Ab Titr Ser HAI
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- hai
- Specimen volume
- 5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
What This Test Measures
The test detects IgG antibodies against the hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg). If you’ve been exposed to hepatitis B virus (HBV) in the past, your body produces these antibodies as part of your immune response. This test is qualitative, meaning it only tells whether antibodies are present or not, not their exact amount.
Why It’s Done
Doctors may order this test to evaluate immunity after vaccination, screen for past HBV infection, or investigate unexplained liver issues. It’s not used to diagnose active hepatitis B infection (which would require testing for HBsAg or viral DNA).
Sample Collection and Process
A blood sample is drawn from a vein, usually in your arm. The blood is processed into serum or plasma for testing. Since this is a qualitative test, no specific reference range applies—only a positive or negative result.
What the Results Mean
A positive result means you likely had past exposure to HBV and developed immunity. A negative result suggests no detectable antibodies, which may mean you’ve never been exposed or the test is too early to detect antibodies.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical Significance
Short name
Hep B Surface Ab IgG (Qualitative)
Frequently asked questions
If you’re vaccinated against hepatitis B and this test is negative, further testing may be needed to confirm immunity. For those with chronic liver conditions, this test can help rule out past HBV infection as a cause.
Can this test detect hepatitis B infection at any stage?
How long after hepatitis B exposure might this test show positive?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
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Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy